Further remarks on the policy of lending Bodleian printed books and manuscripts

Description

Further Remarks on the Policy of Lending Bodleian Printed Books and Manuscripts by Henry W. Chandler, M.A. is a scholarly discourse written in the late 19th century, specifically in 1887. This publication critiques proposed changes to the lending policy of the Bodleian Library, a prominent academic library at the University of Oxford. The book articulates concerns regarding the implications of transforming the Bodleian from a reference library to one that circulates its printed materials and manuscripts, underscoring the potential damage this could cause to its collections. In the text, Chandler passionately opposes the idea of lending books from the Bodleian, arguing that such practices lead to irreparable harm, including loss and damage of unique manuscripts and printed works. He cites experiences from other libraries to illustrate the negative consequences of lending, emphasizing that a lending library often sees a decline in the quality and integrity of its collection. His remarks also highlight the importance of maintaining the Bodleian as a reference library, accessible to scholars who require the resources for research. The arguments against lending focus on preserving valuable texts for future generations and ensuring that the library remains a sanctuary for academic inquiry rather than just a circulating library. (This is an automatically generated summary.)